2014

Madhuri Dixit talks about her latest film Dedh Ishqiya.

The Belle of Bollywood, Madhuri Dixit talks about her latest project Dedh Ishiqa. Presented by Shemaroo Entertainment Ltd and also starring Naseerudin Shah, Arshad Warsi and Huma Qureshi, the romantic thriller, directed by Abhishek Chaubey, is in cinemas now.

Q. Did you feel a heightened sense of pressure in terms of Dedh Ishqiya living up to, if not surpassing, the success and acclaim of Ishqiya?

A. Sequels have to be better and the interest is very high. But a sequel should also look like a different movie. Dedh Ishqiya is completely different in terms of story, culture, atmosphere… We now have these two conmen characters from the first film, put into a haveli setting. The comedy comes off very beautifully. I feel we achieved what we set out to do. It’s a very poetical film, but the Urdu is not so high that the common man won’t understand. And there are also subtitles.

Q. On what levels did the role and character of Begum challenge you as an artist? Did it take you out of any comfort zones?

A. It definitely challenged me as a kind of role, as there are not a lot of histrionics there. There’s no shouting and screaming. It’s not very obvious acting.You’re performing on a tightrope as you’re giving away something but also not, which is a difficult thing to do.

Q. Did you identify with any of her character traits, or was it completely new territory for you?

A. Begum is very different to me as a person, so I had to invent her, but it was a great pleasure playing her. What she wants people to perceive her as is very different from what she really is. Then it has to be underplayed and under-toned. With Muniya, what you see is what you get, whereas Begum is very secretive and there’s a sense of mystery about her. I loved portraying her.

Q Which audiences do you feel will most connect with the film?

A. I think the film should appeal to all audiences as there is everything for everybody – romance, betrayal, beautiful songs…. I would love for everyone to come and watch this film.